Effects of Neonatal Hypoxia on Brain Development

III. Behavioral Changes Due to Total Asphyxia

Abstract

This study was undertaken to investigate effects of total asphyxia on mouse behavior. Two-day-old mice, Jcl: ICR strain, were put into a chamber for 30 minutes which was continuously flushed with 100% CO₂ gas. After the exposure to anoxia, 29% of mice survived. Untreated littermates served as controls. At 20 days, 30 days, and 60 days, behavioral tests for spontaneous activity and emotional response, and neurological tests for muscle strength and coordination function were performed. Hyperactivity and emotional disturbance as well as coordination disturbance were observed in the asphyxiated animals.